Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths that could be prevented in the United States. Colonoscopy is the best test for finding and removing polyps before they turn into cancer. However, many people are hesitant to have a colonoscopy because of the bowel preparation. The preparation can be difficult to tolerate, with patients often struggling to finish it due to the taste, volume, or side effects like nausea and bloating. This can lead to incomplete procedures or discourage people from getting screened at all. Chewing sugar-free gum is a simple, low-cost, and safe intervention that may make the preparation process easier. One study from China found that chewing gum did not change the quality of bowel cleansing, but patients reported that they were more satisfied with the process. No U.S.-based studies have tested this strategy, and no prior research has looked at whether gum chewing has different effects in people using high-volume versus low-volume prep solutions. The investigators will randomize 160 participants to the stated intervention or control using computer-generated 1:1 randomization. Upon completing the study, the investigators will analyze the data. By studying gum chewing during bowel preparation, the investigators hope to find out whether this small change can make bowel prep more tolerable and encourage more patients to complete their colonoscopy. If successful, this approach could help more people get screened, leading to earlier detection and prevention of colorectal cancer in the community.
Age range
45 Years – 75 Years
Sex
ALL
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AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Bowel cleansing quality (BBPS total score)
Timeframe: Day of colonoscopy (intra-procedure assessment, immediately prior to withdrawal).